Lib Dems propose £2.2M ‘House the Homeless’ Scheme in Lewes District

Lib Dems at Lewes District Council are to propose a new housing scheme in the up coming budget council meeting on Feb 19th 2018.

Lib Dem Group Leader Sarah Osborne will be asking Councillors to support Lib Dem plans for 24 2-bed units or a mixture of 1-3 bed units that could be delivered quickly to provide new accommodation in the district for people who are otherwise housed in B&Bs in Eastbourne.

Councillors will be asked to back ring-fencing of £2.2m from the “acquisition of Land and Property” capital programme. The scheme has been shown to be viable and self-financing and would not increase council tax.

Cllr Sarah Osborne said “There is a massive shortage of affordable housinglocally and homeless residents end up in B& B outside the district. This isa bad solution for anyone. It means people are a long way from jobs, schools, friends and family andit’s harmful to their wellbeing. It is also expensive for taxpayers. In last years budget, I secured funding for a feasibility studyfor better housing for those needing emergency accommodation. Itshows it is possible and affordable toprovide temporary, decent housing locally “.

Cllr Osborne added:

No specific site has yet been chosen and if councillors approve the funding Lewes District Council would still follow all appropriate procedures and consultations before moving ahead”.